2026 Mahindra Thar Launched - Here's what's new!

When the second generation of the Mahindra Thar was launched in August 2020, it took the market by storm. Nobody expected a lifestyle vehicle to sell in the numbers that it has done over the past 6 years. Now that Mahindra has launched an all-new generation of the Thar, let's look at the changes that this new-generation model gets. 

2026 Mahindra Thar Platform

The 2026 Mahindra Thar now comes with the fourth-generation body and platform from Mahindra. This platform is remarkably different from the outgoing model, as the outgoing model was based on the older Scorpio platform. The shift to this newer platform means that the new-generation Mahindra Thar is going to be a lot better in terms of ride quality and even in the handling aspect, something that was a major complaint on the older-generation model. Another major change on the new Mahindra Thar is the fact that it now comes with an electronically locking differential, whereas the outgoing model had a brake-locking differential. 

2026 Mahindra Thar Suspension, Wheels and Brakes

The shift to an all-new platform also means that the 2026 Mahindra now gets a better suspension setup with DaVinci piston valves with frequency-dependent dampers. In terms of rear suspension, the new Thar comes with a penta-link setup with Watts linkages. When talking about the wheels, the 2026 Mahindra Thar now gets a 19-inch alloy setup on the top-most variant. This is 1 inch bigger than the outgoing 18-inch wheels that were available on the previous-gen model. The biggest upgrade, however, is on the front. The new Thar now gets all four disc brakes, which is a significant improvement over the front disc and rear drum setup that was seen on the outgoing model. 

2026 Mahindra Thar Engines 

In terms of engines, the base engine of the Mahindra Thar remains the same as before. The 1.5 L four-cylinder turbo diesel puts out 117 PS and 300 Nm of torque. Transmission duties are handled by a six-speed manual only on this engine.

As far as the bigger engines are concerned, the 2.2 L mHawk turbo diesel motor is now upgraded to put out 150 PS and 330 Nm of torque, whereas the 2 L mStallion turbo petrol engine is now upgraded to put out 160 PS and 330 Nm of torque. Transmission duties on both these bigger engines are handled by a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic sourced from AISIN. 

Interiors and Safety Features

Stepping inside, the cabin of the 2026 Mahindra Thar undergoes a significant update, ditching the previous model's dark black theme in favour of a fresh brown interior shade. On the safety front, the new Thar sees a major upgrade with six airbags fitted as standard, compared to just two in the older version. For added convenience, Mahindra has also added front parking sensors, making it considerably easier to navigate tight spaces.

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the 2026 Mahindra Thar kicks off at Rs 10.32 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi) for the AXT trim. However, the figures for the higher-spec LXT, and ZXT trims remain under wraps for now. As for competition, the updated off-roader continues to battle rival lifestyle SUVs like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha, though neither matches the Thar in sheer market dominance or sales volume.

In summary, moving from the second-generation Mahindra Thar to this new model represents a steady evolutionary step, unlike the revolutionary leap seen between the first and second generations. These essential upgrades bring significant enhancements to the three-door off-roader, considerably elevating its overall value proposition for buyers.